but also james johnson, the chief of police of baltimore county, and captain mark kelly, astronaut, navy veteran, and the husband of congresswoman gabby giffords. gabby giffords, of course, was shot in the head by a mentally ill gunman in an assassination attempt in january 2011. today in an emotionally charged and at times contentious testimony, the most moving part of the day happen right at the very beginning with a surprise addition to the witness list as gabby giffords herself made her way down the aisle into the hearing room to deliver a short statement to the senators and the assembled media and the audience. this was a surprise today. it was clear that this was not >> okay. thank you for inviting me here today. this is an important conversation for our children, for our communities, for democrats and republicans. speaking is difficult, but i need to say something important. violence is a big problem. too many children are dying. too many children. we must do something. it will be hard, but the time is now. you must act. be bold, be courageous. americans are counting on you. thank